The citation is the highest claim validation UL gives for landfill waste diversion,

The passenger and light truck tire plant achieved its waste diversion goal last February and then began the process of applying for UL's claim validation.

The factory underwent an extensive, two-part audit by UL Environment, a business unit of UL. The audit included document evaluation and on-site visits.

During the evaluation process, UL verified Wilson's Zero Waste to Landfill claim with 14-percent waste-to-energy, determining that a majority of the facility's waste-to-energy diversion — 11 percent — is the best possible use for that material.

"I am so proud of the teammates at the Wilson facility for their commitment to being the first of Bridgestone's manufacturing sites, and the first manufacturing facility of any kind, to be recognized by UL Environment for this accomplishment," said Gary Williamson, Wilson plant manager, Bridgestone Americas. "This achievement validates all of their hard work, and continues to position our company as a leader in identifying and implementing innovative solutions to support environmental sustainability."

Facility leadership worked closely with Waste Management Sustainability Services to identify all of the remnant waste materials from manufacturing processes, such as whole scrap tires, rubber components and packaging, as well as ancillary support processes such as offices and cafeterias, and found other beneficial-use markets for these materials, the tire maker said.

Bridgestone said its passenger and light truck tire plant in Aiken, S.C., achieved zero waste to landfill in December 2012.

"UL Environment's validation of our Zero Waste to Landfill achievement at Wilson demonstrates to our customers, our communities and our teammates that we are a corporate partner highly committed to helping ensure a healthy environment for current and future generations," said Tim Bent, director of environmental affairs, Bridgestone Americas.